vasalage

Vasalage refers to a historical social and economic system prevalent in parts of Europe, particularly in Eastern Europe, during the medieval and early modern periods. It is characterized by a specific type of land tenure and personal obligation. In a vasalage arrangement, a lord granted land, known as a fief, to a vassal. In return for this land, the vassal owed certain duties to the lord, which could include military service, advice, and financial contributions.

Unlike simple feudalism where obligations were primarily military, vasalage often involved more complex personal bonds and a broader range of duties. The vassal was not merely a soldier but also a dependent who swore loyalty and offered a spectrum of services. This system was integral to the political and social structures of the time, influencing land ownership, the organization of armies, and the administration of justice. The nature and extent of these obligations could vary significantly depending on the specific agreements between the lord and the vassal, as well as regional customs and laws. Over time, the institution of vasalage evolved and eventually declined, superseded by more centralized forms of state power and different economic models.